Reflections from a girl as she sees the world

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Monthly Archives: November 2017

I thought I’d share something more useful than just my thoughts this time… my packing list from when I backpacked Thailand, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii over the course of two months (the end of October until the end of December). I had boiling hot and humid climates (hi, Koh Phangan) all the way down to snow and frosty mornings on New Zealand’s south island.

Hiking Roy’s Peak in Wanaka, NZ

At Mueller Hut in Mount Cook National Park

Mt. Ngauruhoe, Tongariro Crossing

All of my gear fit in my 55L pack (I also had a small cooler bag that I carried my food in). I am generally a very light packer, and I was extremely pleased with what I brought on my trip. Without further ado, here is my packing list from fall 2015:

Gear

55L backpack

Lifestraw water bottle (I was able to drink the water in Thailand with no issue)

2 plastic shopping bags (these are always so clutch when you need them!)

5 Ziploc bags

Combo lock for hostels

What I brought that I shouldn’t have:

Thermarest (it took up a lot of space and I didn’t use it nearly enough)

Final thoughts…

You will DEFINITELY not need as much stuff as you think. And you will also accumulate more stuff along the way for sure. Also, find hostel friends to split a washing machine with when it’s time to do laundry, that was a big money saver, since I barely had enough clothes for a full load anyways. Happy traveling guys!